Last month’s Snobbing led us to a location we visited almost 12 months ago for our fourth birthday: ‘Peppertown’. However, there were no ghosts of cafés past here on this occasion – this baby has had a complete makeover.

Alongside the train line that divides Mayfield East and Tighes Hill on Maitland Road is Equium Social. The name translates to ‘amateur composer’ and is a nod to the creative veins that run deep through this bohemian dream. There is, however, nothing amateur about the fantastic food that comes over the pass from a sophisticated and well-priced menu, curated by sister restaurant Talulah’s maestro chef.

Inside there are touches of Scandinavian influence, with dramatic native bush hanging from the ceiling and the hygge of fresh brown pastries resting on a timber bench top illuminated by lots of natural light. But there’s also a mad scientist vibe from the shelves of big vats of fermenting fruits and ginger beer in the back corner, which leads to their impressive yoga studio next door.

The coffee is also next level; this is the café debut for local Steel River roasters Running Man. The baristas buzzing about behind the machine know how to give you a sensory experience, down to the fine art of spritzing a soy latte with something special so you don’t receive a beverage that looks like a poached egg (we have seen this before).

Although the table setup is better suited to smaller groups, this is a space to find that special someone and take them for a weekend breakfast with a zippy espresso. It’s time to get on board the new hip train; first stop Mayfield.

Join us for our birthday celebration! Details at facebook.com/newcastlecoffeesnobs or on Insta @newcastlecoffeesnobs.